WHY WE LOVE IT HERE | Portugal as a whole, is a dichotomy, part rugged, but also extremely refined. The food, the people, the lifestyle, the landscapes, the architecture. Elegant but humble in a way that differs from the rest of Europe - full of artistry in every tiled building and down to the smallest door knocker.
BEST TIME TO GO | The golden window for experiencing Lisbon is from May to October. That should ensure moderate to warm temps, little rain and maximum sunshine with longer days. Spring and fall offer a sweet spot of fewer crowds but still nice enough to enjoy a pastéis de nata at an outdoor cafe. Still to me, nothing beats a summer in Lisboa. The cobblestones warmed my sunshine, people spilling out of cafes on the outdoor terraces, cold beer, a surplus of seafood, endless golden beaches and coastline stretching on for miles.
LAY OF THE LAND | Lisbon offers visitors that unmistakable recipe of crave-able cuisine (both classic and contemporary,) stylish nightlife, subversive street art, vibrant cafe culture, parks & playgrounds abound, handy craft and architecture all steeped in or informed by centuries of history. You’ll barely make it 100 meters without stumbling upon an alluring storefront, a pastelaria (pastry shop) or a cute cafe/wine bar that beckons you in.
WHAT TO PACK | Light layers, smart, colourful separates in linen and cotton for the blazing afternoon sun that turns the city's iconic azulejo tiles into glittering mosaics. Comfortable tennis shoes and sandals for Lisbon's notorious seven hills that will test even the most seasoned of travellers. Sunglasses, a pareo for beach days or as a fun accessory, a light jacket or sweater for the morning and evening mists that roll in from the Tagus River.
TIPS | Per the above, the cobbled streets are not the easiest place for navigating a stroller, or with improper footwear so beware. Take advantage of jet lag to log some early morning sightseeing and beat the crowds and summer heat - like the historic Tram 28. If possible, do like the Portuguese and embrace an afternoon siesta during the hottest part of the day. Scheduling late afternoon and evening activities is a fun way to experience the city coming alive as the temperatures drop and bonus
SLEEP
Check-in at Palácio Ludovice Wine Hotel where guests have the chance to bed-down in a grand palace. A former private residence, it has panoramic views, over the iconic Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. The lovingly restored frescos and murals throughout its 61 rooms date back to the 18th century. Reimagined by Portuguese starchitect, Miguel Câncio Martins, the service and design make this our top choice for a stylish stay in Lisbon.
Families with young kids will definitely appreciate Chiado Martinhal - chic & central, this hotel emphasizes family first - the only city center hotel of it's kind in the world. With an ace kids club (complimentary to all little guests from 
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), parents get the opportunity to truly explore the city - and it's incredible dining scene - while their littles enjoy dinner and a movie, creative projects and playtime! They have a couple large (and stylish) apartments to accommodate the entire clan.
Alma Lusa Baixa/Chiado - Housed in an 18th century building in one of the most emblematic squares in the area, this boutique property combines contemporary design elements mixed with traditional features (think tiles and Pombalino-style windows). Offering connecting rooms as well as a Two Bedroom Studio that are perfect for families. A complimentary breakfast buffet is included all room rates.
Lumiares Hotel & Spa - Located in Bairro Alto (like nearby Palacio Ludavice) this former palace was converted into spacious apartments with a panoramic rooftop. Sundowners at the Lumi rooftop are reason enough to book a summer stay, their well-priced Two Bedroom Suite is another.
The Ivens - Occupying a 19th century building that was once home to the city's first luxury warehouse, it has been transformed into a contemporary hotel with a cute colonial-inspired decor scheme. The design elements are all inspired by Portuguese explorers Ivens and Capelo who's adventures took them to Africa at the turn of the century.
Please reach out if you need help deciding on and booking a stylish stay in Lisbon or curating a full custom itinerary. Amanda@fora.travel
EAT: BREAKFAST
Hello, Kristof (Santos) - a minimalist, Scandi-inspired café that feels more Copenhagen than classic Lisbon - serving up some of the best filter coffee in the city. Order the avocado toast with poached egg and sukkah and linger for some people watching.
Heim Café - a local favourite that toes the line between cool and cozy. Their green shakshuka and homemade banana bread are standouts. Coffee is superb and service is warm.
Flora & Fauna (Arroios/Anjos) - tucked away in a leafy backstreet, this is the kind of café you wish you lived near. Full of plants, natural textures and a menu that leans clean and creative. Think oat pancakes, matcha lattes and beetroot hummus toast.
Seagull Method Café (Principe Real) - A bit more bustling, but beautifully curated. The crowd is international and in-the-know. Try the turkish eggs, ricotta pancakes, and incredible flat whites.
The Mill (Cais do Sodré) - an Aussie-Portuguese fusion café with an emphasis on quality ingredients and breezy service. Portuguese-style toast with butter and jam is delectable, so are the açai bowls and fresh juices.
ENERGIZE
Visit Belém tower or Check out the view from the Triumphal Arch, Arco da Rua Augusta - there is rarely a line to get up (unlike Paris!!!) and it will set you back less than €5!
SNACK
Dessert: You can't come to Portugal and not try a Pastel de nata. But skip the lines at Pastei de Belem --> head to Sede Da Manteigaria instead!
PLAY
Lisbon is full of Beautiful parks - our boys loved the shady playground at Jardim de Estrela. We brought some leftover pastry from breakfast to feed the ducks. Hot tip for tots: Rent dunebuggy trikes at the entrance near the Gengibre da Estrela Café (bandstand)
Take a TukTuk tour - we loved this one as it offers a digestible overview of the big sites, viewpoints & history of Lisboa.
EAT: LUNCH
Lunch with kids at the Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) - a gourmet dining hall bringing the best chefs & vendors together under 1 roof!
If you’re in the mood for a fancy Italian lunch Rocco is the sceney spot.
Be sure to try the fresh grilled sardines & bifanas (delicious shaved beef sandwiches) served on many street corners only during the month of June - chef's kiss.
FROLIC
Devour all the cities most famous delicacies with a food tour for the entire family. ‘Tastes and Traditions of Lisbon’ was an interactive romp through the storied streets of Lisbon. While we sampled the many dishes and petiscos (little bites) of traditional Portuguese fare, we learned so much about the century-old shops we visited and recipes we sampled.
Visit Castelo São Jorge - great views of city and peacocks roaming the grounds.
Pay a visit to the palace-packed town of Sintra and coastal Cascais, just a short train ride outside the city.
CAFFEINATE
Dramático for specialty coffee in the cutest surrounds
Buna Specialty Coffee - for the coffee purist with a design sensibility
Fábrica Coffee Roasters - multiple locations but we love the one on Lua day Portas de Santo Antão for the vibe. Lisbons creative crowd gathers here.
Comoba - organic, light-drenched and cool without trying. Coffee sourced from Portuguese micro-roasters and poured with perfection.
INSPIRE
Lots of great museums - but the new-ish MAAT (Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia) is a winner for budding engineers. Housed in the former power station - the Electricity Museum is full of hands-on fun!
Check out the view from the Triumphal Arch, Arco da Rua Augusta - there is rarely a line to get up (unlike Paris!!!) and it will set you back less than €5!
Visit Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium). Largest aquarium in Europe
Real Fado: Authentic fado at Astonishing venues around the city. Our family a stunning performance in the Reservatório da Patriarcal - an underground reservoir from the 19th century. The natural acoustics are extraordinary.
Book a boat charter along the Tagus River to see Lisbon from the water. Pass under the 25 de Abril Bridge and glide toward Belém, champagne in hand.
EAT: DINNER
Bairro do Alvillez - Michelin approved thanks to star chef José Alvillez, made up of four distinct restaurants within one large building, Peruvian cuisine.
A Travessa - in a historic convent with tables spilling into the courtyard serving elevated Portuguese cuisine
Federico Restaurante - at Palacio Ludavice)
Magnolia Bistrot & Winebar - in a cute bustling square
Taberna da Rua das Flores - charming tiny tavern for fresh seafood. No reservations
A Cevicheria is a bright and busy spot Peruvian outpost slinging ceviche and Pisco Sours. No reservations so be prepared to wait.
Make your way just outside the city to the small seaside village of Azenhas do Mar. Claim a seat at the bar of the restaurant by the same name. It overlooks the crashing waves. While you watch the sun fall into the sea you’ll dine on juicy prawns and divine clams dripping in garlic butter.
DATE NIGHT
Senhor Uva - vegetable forward "botanical food", natural wine haven with Parisian intimacy. Run by a Canadian-Portuguese couple. Menu changes often. Book a table on a summer night under the string lights on the terrace.
Taberna do Calhau - for modern Portuguese in an ancient square, deeply soulful. Tucked into a tiny cobbled square in one of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhoods, with fado floating out of nearby windows, it feels like a secret. Go at dusk and sit outside if the weather allows.
Prado - sleek and local, where design appeal meets modern edge. Every ingredient is hyper-local and seasonal with a focus on zero waste. Excellent cocktails and a sharp, natural wine list.
SHOPPING
A Vida Portuguesa - your first stop for the chicest souvenirs - traditional products with a focus on craftsmanship and quality all made in Portugal.
Cutipol - Portugal is a homewares meca, and this luxe little shop offers a world-class reference to the absolute best-of home goods and tableware.
Paris Em Lisboa - more home goods, but of the textiles and accessories variety. Bed, bath and table linens as well as gorgeous home scents, aprons and more.
Shop the Destination
Uniqlo Airism Cotton t-shirt | AGOLDE Denim Shorts | Rhode lip balm | Loeve Puzzle Bag | Autry Reelwind Sneaker | Agolde Denim | YSL Suede Loafers | Seven Wonders Veronne Midi Dress | Crown Affair Dry Shampoo | Breda Watch